Skyscraper Structures

[Chick21]

I am looking for information on structures for skyscrapers using similar technology as found on the Swiss Re and the Hearst Tower (i.e. External exposed structure with a central core.

Any help on finding details for these type of projects will help, cheers.

[trogers]

Arch Record had a recent technology/innovation attachment to their usual journal that went in depth regarding the Hearst Tower and its structural technologies. Check the journal records at your local university library or figure out how to get Arch Record for free at Zinio (http://www.zinio.com) (still haven't figured out how to get this free). There's a thread going on now H E R E. (http://www.pushpullbar.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1317&highlight=zinio)

[lessthanfred]

A fair portion of modern skyscrapers have exposed structures. The defining element of the Gherkin and Hearst Tower is the "diagrid" in which no vertical columns are used. Estimated to reduce the amount of steel by around 20%. Foster seems to be showing a fair amount of consideration regarding the environment in his latest tall buildings, not just in reducing the volumes of materials either. The twisting inside St Mary's Axe is part of the natural ventilation and the atrium of the Hearst Tower contains "Ice Fall" effectively a huge heat sink.
And the core of the Hearst Tower is actually situated off centre against the rear wall due to it's proximity to a neighbouring tower.
If you have been assigned to research these buildings inparticular I would suggest you pay more attention to the diagrid rather than the fact that the structure is external.
The Hearst Tower was a Design Method project of mine from last semester, I do have quite a substantial amount of information but it's 3am. I will try to sort something out for you over the weekend.